This is the first harness that I've had in which the dog doesn't step into the harness but the harness attaches around the body. It takes some getting used to but if your dog is patient like mine is it isn't a big deal. The trick is getting the buckle through the loop on the underside of your pooch which does require some practice and takes a little more time than the step in type but I bought this type of harness mainly for the metal ring placement. It is towards the back which I tend to like more than the ones that are closer to the neck. I would definitely recommend this if you have any patience whatsoever.